Head Chef

SMYTH & CO LUXURY CONSULTANTS LTD; West Oxfordshire; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned luxury boutique hotel in the Cotswolds seeks a talented Head Chef to lead its culinary team. This role offers the opportunity to create innovative seasonal menus and mentor a skilled brigade while maintaining high standards in a prestigious environment. If you thrive on creativity and quality, we invite you to join this exceptional dining experience.

Benefits

Live-in accommodation provided

3 free meals a day

Healthcare cashback scheme

Awards of Excellence & long-service recognition

Staff discounts across a portfolio of luxury venues

Ongoing training and development with recognised providers

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or exceptional Senior Sous Chef ready to step up.
• Deep understanding of seasonal British cuisine and high-end dining.
• Calm under pressure and passionate about nurturing talent.

Responsibilities

• Full responsibility for kitchen operations, including service, staffing, and quality.
• Leading and mentoring the team to foster a positive kitchen culture.
• Developing seasonal menus with creativity and precision.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team Building

Creativity

Attention to Detail

Job description

Live-In Position for a Head Chef at a Boutique Luxury Hotel in the Cotswolds – £60,000–£70,000 + Benefits

A rare opportunity has arisen for a talented and visionary Head Chef to join a renowned luxury boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds. This idyllic property has recently unveiled two bold new dining concepts, showcasing refined British cuisine with a focus on seasonality, provenance, and elegant simplicity.

What’s in It for You:

• £60,000–£70,000 salary depending on experience

• Live-in accommodation provided

• 3 free meals a day

• Healthcare cashback scheme (post-probation)

• Awards of Excellence & long-service recognition

• Staff discounts across a portfolio of luxury venues

• 25% off food and beverage, spa treatment discounts

• Refer-a-Friend scheme with generous rewards

• Cycle to Work scheme

• Employee Assistance Programme for well-being support

• Team socials, seasonal gifts & more

• Ongoing training and development with recognised providers

About the Role:

As Head Chef, you will take full creative and operational control of the kitchen, bringing leadership, passion, and flair to every aspect of the food offering. You will be responsible for upholding the highest standards, managing and developing a talented brigade, and continuously elevating the guest experience through innovation and consistency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Full responsibility for kitchen operations, including service, staffing, and quality

• Leading and mentoring the team, fostering a positive and ambitious kitchen culture

• Developing seasonal menus with creativity and precision

• Overseeing supplier relationships and sourcing premium, local ingredients

• Ensuring full compliance with food hygiene, health and safety regulations

• Managing kitchen budgets, stock control, and cost efficiency

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or an exceptional Senior Sous Chef ready to step up

• A deep understanding of seasonal British cuisine and high-end dining

• A natural leader with excellent communication and team-building skills

• Driven by quality, consistency, and an uncompromising eye for detail

• Calm under pressure, hands-on, and passionate about nurturing talent

This is a career-defining opportunity for a Head Chef who thrives on creativity, autonomy, and delivering unforgettable dining experiences. If you're ready to lead with vision and make your mark in a prestigious Cotswolds setting, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, send your CV to Smyth & Co or get in touch for a confidential conversation.